Identity Theft

The Millville Police Department will assist all victims associated with this crime, but unfortunately, the victims themselves are burdened with resolving their own credit problems. Victims of identity theft must act quickly and assertively to minimize the damage to their good name and credit history.

If you believe you are the victim of identity theft, take the following steps:

1. Contact the fraud departments of each of the three (3) major credit bureaus and report the theft. Ask that a "fraud alert" be placed on your file and that no new credit be granted without your approval. Equifax: (800) 525-6285; Experian: (888) 397-3742; Trans Union: (800) 680-7289.

2. For accounts that have been fraudulently accessed or opened, contact the security department of the appropriate creditor or financial institution. Close these accounts and put passwords (not your mother's maiden name or social security number) on any new accounts you open.

3. To report fraudulent use of your personal checks, contact the following national checking agencies: CheckRite: (800) 766-2748; Chexsystems: (800) 428-9623; CrossCheck: (800) 843-0760; Certigy/Equifax: (800) 437-5120; Internation Check: (800) 526-5380; SCAN: (800) 262-7771; TeleCheck: (800) 710-9898.

4. You must file a report with your local department or the police department where the identity theft took place. Get the report number or a copy of the report in case the bank, credit card company or others need proof of the crime later.

5. Call the ID Theft Clearinghouse toll free at 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) to report the theft. Counselors will take your complaint and advise you on how to deal with the credit related problems that could result from the ID theft. The Identity Theft hotline gives you one place to report the theft to the federal government and receive helpful information.

If you need further assistance, please contact the Millville Police Department and an officer will try to answer questions regarding your case.